Private Internet Access (PIA) - Legacy vs Mullvad VPN

Private Internet Access (PIA) - Legacy

Mullvad VPN

WINNER Private Internet Access (PIA) - Legacy

Private Internet Access (PIA) - Legacy excels in providing a broad range of servers and strong security protocols, makin...

emoji_events WINNER

Private Internet Access (PIA) - Legacy

8.5 Very Good

VPN Service

Mullvad VPN

8.7 Very Good

VPN Service

psychology AI Verdict

Private Internet Access (PIA) - Legacy excels in providing a broad range of servers and strong security protocols, making it an excellent choice for users who need robust protection across various internet activities such as streaming and torrenting. However, its user interface can be complex, which might deter beginners. On the other hand, Mullvad VPN stands out with its minimalist approach to privacy and anonymity, offering a highly secure experience without unnecessary features.

Its open-source nature and focus on security make it a trusted choice among experts. Despite both services being top-tier in their respective areas, PIA - Legacy's extensive server network and ease of use for general internet users give it an edge over Mullvad VPN.

emoji_events Winner: Private Internet Access (PIA) - Legacy

verified Confidence: High

thumbs_up_down Pros & Cons

Private Internet Access (PIA) - Legacy

check_circle Pros

Over 3,000 servers in 67 countries
Strong encryption with multiple protocol options
No-logs policy

cancel Cons

Complex user interface for beginners
Less focus on privacy and anonymity compared to Mullvad

Mullvad VPN

check_circle Pros

Open-source apps ensure transparency and security
Highly secure with WireGuard by default
No-logs policy

cancel Cons

Limited server network compared to PIA - Legacy
Higher pricing than PIA - Legacy

compare Feature Comparison

Feature	Private Internet Access (PIA) - Legacy	Mullvad VPN
Server Network	Over 3,000 servers in 67 countries	Smaller but focused on privacy and security
Protocols Supported	OpenVPN, IKEv2, L2TP/IPSec	WireGuard by default
No-Logs Policy	Yes, with strict no-logs commitment	Yes, with a strong focus on privacy and security
Dedicated Server Option	Available for improved performance	Not available
Payment Methods	Credit card, PayPal, Bitcoin	Cash, cryptocurrency, gift cards
User Interface	Complex but comprehensive guides available	Simple and user-friendly

payments Pricing

Private Internet Access (PIA) - Legacy

$6.95 per month for the basic plan

Good Value

Mullvad VPN

$8.30 per month for the basic plan

Fair Value

difference Key Differences

Private Internet Access (PIA) - Legacy Mullvad VPN

PIA - Legacy offers a wide range of servers in 67 countries, providing users with numerous options for bypassing geo-restrictions and accessing content from different regions. Its strong security protocols ensure robust protection against cyber threats.

Core Strength

Mullvad focuses on privacy and anonymity, using WireGuard by default to provide fast and secure connections. Its no-logs policy ensures that user data is never retained or shared with third parties.

PIA - Legacy supports multiple protocols including OpenVPN, IKEv2, and L2TP/IPSec, offering flexibility in connection types. It also provides a dedicated server feature for improved performance.

Performance

Mullvad uses WireGuard by default, which is known for its speed and efficiency. The service does not offer as many protocol options but prioritizes performance over versatility.

PIA - Legacy offers competitive pricing with plans starting at $6.95 per month, providing good value for its extensive server network and robust security features.

Value for Money

Mullvad's pricing is slightly higher, starting at $8.30 per month, but the focus on privacy and anonymity justifies the cost for users prioritizing these aspects.

PIA - Legacy has a more complex user interface that can be challenging for beginners. However, it offers comprehensive guides and support to assist new users.

Ease of Use

Mullvad's simplicity is its strength; the service requires minimal setup and configuration, making it easy for even tech-savvy users to use without extensive guidance.

PIA - Legacy is best suited for general internet users who need robust protection across various activities like streaming and torrenting. Its extensive server network ensures reliable connections in different regions.

Best For

Mullvad is ideal for privacy enthusiasts and security experts who prioritize anonymity and minimalistic features over a wide range of servers and protocols.

help When to Choose

Private Internet Access (PIA) - Legacy

If you prioritize a wide range of servers and robust security features.
If you need reliable connections in multiple regions for streaming and torrenting.
If you choose Private Internet Access (PIA) - Legacy if ease of use is not your primary concern but you value comprehensive protection.

Mullvad VPN

If you prioritize privacy and minimalistic features over a wide range of servers and protocols.
If you are a security expert or privacy enthusiast who values transparency and open-source applications.
If you need a highly secure service with no-logs policy and fast connections.

description Overview

Private Internet Access (PIA) - Legacy

PIA offers a robust set of features including over 3,000 servers in 67 countries. It's known for its strong security protocols and is suitable for general internet use, streaming, and torrenting. However, the user interface can be complex for beginners.

Mullvad VPN

Mullvad VPN is the gold standard for anonymity and minimalist privacy. It requires no email, name, or personal information to create an account—just a randomly generated account number. It accepts anonymous payment methods like cash and cryptocurrency. All apps are open-source, and the service is based in Sweden. It focuses purely on being a VPN, without flashy features for streaming, resulting in...